Watch Hitler On Trial [The Man Who Crossed Hitler]

Hitler On Trial, also known as The Man Who Crossed Hitler, is a powerful and thought-provoking drama retelling the remarkable true story of a German lawyer who dared to stand up against the Nazi regime during World War II. Directed by Philip Martin and released in 2011, the film stars Ed Stoppard as the lawyer in question, Hans Litten, with Ian Hart as Adolf Hitler and Bill Paterson as Litten's father.

Through a series of expertly crafted flashbacks, the film takes viewers back to the early 1930s, when Hitler was starting to make his ascent to power in Germany. Litten, a successful and well-respected lawyer, is convinced that Hitler and his Nazi party represent a grave threat to democracy and the rule of law, and becomes determined to expose them for what they truly are. Despite facing initial opposition from his friends and colleagues, who think him paranoid, Litten tirelessly researches and investigates the party and its leaders, developing a keen understanding of their motives and tactics.

Litten's determination brings him into direct confrontation with Hitler himself when he orchestrates a daring stunt in 1931, summoning Hitler as a witness in a case he is arguing against the SA - the Nazi party's infamous paramilitary wing. Acting as his own defense attorney, Litten proceeds to relentlessly cross-examine Hitler, exposing him as a liar and a demagogue in front of the court. The incident makes headlines across Germany, with Litten hailed as a hero by those who see through Hitler's facade.

However, Litten's audacity has a dangerous consequence, as the Nazis become determined to exact revenge. In one of the movie's most powerful scenes, a group of SA thugs brutally assault Litten's family, leaving his father badly injured and traumatizing his sister. Despite the danger, Litten continues his anti-Nazi work, defending Jewish clients and openly criticizing the regime. Eventually, in 1933, he is arrested and thrown into one of the infamous concentration camps, where he is subjected to brutal torture and inhumane conditions.

Narrated by Litten's friend and fellow lawyer, the film portrays his struggle to maintain his sanity and hold on to his beliefs, even as he is subjected to unimaginable horrors. Meanwhile, his father and girlfriend work tirelessly to secure his release, desperate to save him from the fate that so many others have suffered under the Nazi regime. The film culminates in a tense and emotional courtroom scene, where Litten once again finds himself facing off against Hitler - this time in front of a mock trial organized by his fellow prisoners.

Overall, Hitler On Trial is a powerful and important film that succeeds in humanizing the struggle against the Nazi regime during World War II. Ed Stoppard gives a remarkable performance as Hans Litten, conveying both his courage and his vulnerability with great skill. Ian Hart is suitably chilling as Hitler, portraying the dictator as a man of immense charisma and dangerous ambition. Bill Paterson, too, is excellent in his role as Litten's father, providing a heartbreaking portrayal of a man who is powerless to protect those he loves from the regime's brutality.

While the film's subject matter is undeniably dark and difficult, it is also deeply inspiring, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up to tyranny and upholding the principles of justice and humanity. Hitler On Trial is a must-see for fans of historical drama and anyone interested in the lessons of history that remain relevant to our present day.

Hitler On Trial [The Man Who Crossed Hitler] is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.